Pax Christi International expresses deep concern at the outcome of yesterday’s discussions among European Union foreign ministers, which once again failed to take meaningful action in response to the grave situation in Palestine. 

There is clear evidence from UN bodies and human rights organisations of serious and ongoing violations of international humanitarian and human rights law by Israeli authorities against Palestinians, which, in proceedings before the International Court of Justice and in statements by UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese, have raised serious concerns regarding a plausible risk of genocide, underscoring the urgent need for preventive action and accountability. 

We therefore deeply regret that the European Union has once again failed to act on its own legal framework. Article 2 of the EU–Israel Association Agreement clearly establishes respect for human rights and democratic principles as an essential element of the agreement. Continued political, economic, and trade relations with Israel risk sustaining these violations and raises concerns of complicity in grave international crimes. 

At the same time, we wish to acknowledge and commend those member states that brought forward the call to reassess the EU–Israel Association Agreement and insisted on the need for a more proactive, principled approach. Their leadership reflects a necessary shift toward aligning EU policy with its stated values and legal obligations. 

Silence, hesitation, or limited diplomatic engagement are no longer acceptable. The European Union and its Member States have both a moral duty and a legal obligation to act to prevent further violations and to ensure accountability. 

We will continue, together with our partners, to advocate for a just and lasting peace, one grounded in equality, dignity, and the full respect of international law, but more importantly, one that ensures the protection and respect of the rights of the Palestinian people. 

Join the Amnesty International campaign to ask Italian and German governments to react and suspend the agreement by clicking here.